Press Conference Comments – Rafa Got Advice From Shearer

Rafa Benitez is giving his first press conference this afternoon as the Newcastle manager at the Benton training grounds for the game at Leicester City on Monday night and his first comments are starting to come through.

Rafa Benitez – taking his seat this afternoon
What a smart fellow!
These are some of Rafa’s initial comments:

“You know this is a massive club and it’s not doing what it should do. Hopefully we can make the fans proud again.”

“10 games. We hope to be proud what we can build at Newcastle.” “We have 10 games – it doesn’t matter if I’m a head coach or manager it’s all about staying in the Premier League.”

“We need to give the players confidence. I know we have ability. I’m here because I believe we’re good enough to stay in PL” “It’s been an intense start. We wanted to train from the first moment and credit to the players for coming in from a day off.”

“First 24 hours has been intense but great positive atmosphere and credit to the players” “I expect 100% from the players every game.” “The players have impressed me but they need more confidence right now.”

“I have some experience of relegation battles but how you have to approach the games are the same as when you want to win.”

“I’ve talked with Alan Shearer and Peter Beardsley about the city and the passionate fans.”

“I have had offers from different countries but I was waiting for England and Newcastle is a big great club.”

“It a break clause (in the contract) and is normal. But I am here to do my best and I’m convinced we can do well.”

“The fans are massive for us. Crucial in every game. It’s time to concentrate on the ten games. We have to stick together.”

That’s interesting that Rafa did mention he has spoken to both Alan Shearer and Peter Beardsley for advice, and of course Peter runs the U21 side.

Alan is trying to help Rafa as much as he can by telling the club to allow Rafa free rein to manage the club as he sees fit.

It’s interesting he said that release clause is normal in a contract – but surely if we are relegated he will not stay around at Newcastle.

Will he?

Norwich have just taken a valuable point at home to Manchester City in a 0-0 draw.

In honor of two dedicated Newcastle fans, who lost their lives supporting Newcastle United.

Their passenger jet was shot down over Ukraine on Thursday July 17th, 2014 by rebels, as they were traveling to support the team in New Zealand.

We will never forget them.

Health Update - 4 Aug, 2016

The good news last week was that after more blood tests my PSA count is still undetectable

This means the prostate cancer is still under control, and there is no trace of it in the body.

Now to be even more vigilant so I can see the Rafa Benitez project come to its fruition over the next few years - wouldn't want to miss that.

Howay The Lads!!>

Ed Harrison

What Is A Football Club?

What is a club in any case?

Not the buildings or the directors or the people who are paid to represent it.

It’s not the television contracts, get-out clauses, marketing departments or executive boxes.

It’s the noise, the passion, the feeling of belonging, the pride in your city.

It’s a small boy clambering up stadium steps for the very first time, gripping his father’s hand, gawping at that hallowed stretch of turf beneath him and, without being able to do a thing about it, falling in love.